Mapin books are jointly published and distributed in the US, UK and Europe through our US-based partner, Grantha Corporation. All Mapin books carry a Grantha ISBN for the ease of ordering through our respective distributors in this region. Customers in the regions mentioned above should use the Grantha ISBN for reference while looking for our books in bookstores, online stores and libraries.

Jugnu Rani, a tiny firefly, ponders over her insignificance and witnesses the gradual distancing between trees and humankind. She observes the disciplined life of ants and the hard work of the bees, and feels that her existence is useless. But Suraj Dada, the Sun, reminds her that every creature has a place and purpose in the universe. One day, when the forest is in danger, Jugnu Rani discovers the light within her and finds her purpose. Soon no one is afraid of the dark anymore.

Rendered in the Mithila style of painting, this story is a charming introduction to human relationship with the environment.

Translated from Hindi by Urvashi Butalia.

About the Author
Pradyumna Kumar is an artist, sculptor, and instructor of Madhubani art. He was awarded the prestigious Noma Concours Award for Picture Book Illustrations in 2006. These illustrations are drawn in the Mithila style of painting from northeastern India. About the Translator
Urvashi Butalia, who has translated the book from Hindi, is a writer, feminist and historian. She is the publisher of Zubaan Books.

The story and illustrations won the Grand Jury Prize at the 15th Noma Concours for Picture Book Illustrations, 2006.

While commenting on the winning entry, the jury had said:
"Any number of stories seem to pour forth from the work, which has a unique decorativeness and is very finely and exquisitely drawn. The frame decoration is beautiful and enjoyable, making it seem as though you are looking at a tapestry. In the personification of wood and use of colour, one senses not only the following of tradition but also the artist's individuality."